Sculptra®

Introduction to Sculptra Aesthetic

Sculptra® Aesthetic is an advanced injectable facial filler used to correct the unwanted signs of aging by restoring lost volume in the skin. Often referred to as a “liquid facelift”, Sculptra® Aesthetic can help correct sunken cheeks, contour deficiencies, hollow eyes and folds and wrinkles, through a minimally invasive treatment.

With a simple, safe injection, Sculptra® Aesthetic gradually replaces lost collagen to improve facial fullness, as well as the appearance of wrinkles, folds and sunken areas. By tightening and lifting the skin, patients can achieve significant, yet natural-looking results that can last for two to five years. No other filler provides such dramatic, long-lasting results.

Why Choose Dr. Balle?

Dr. Balle is a certified Sculptra® Aesthetic injector with several years of experience administering this revolutionary product with successful outcomes. Effectively combining artistry and technical skill in the administration of Sculptra® Aesthetic injections, Dr. Balle was chosen by Galderma, the maker of Sculptra®, to teach and train other physicians nationally on the appropriate injection techniques for Sculptra®. With many patients coming to him for his advanced knowledge and experience, Dr. Balle is one of the highest volume providers of Sculptra® Aesthetic in the state of Michigan. Dr. Balle personally administers Sculptra®, and all other injectables available to his patients. You can be sure you are in expert hands with Dr. Balle, whose vast experience with these procedures has serviced Southeast Michigan at his Grosse Pointe Dermatology office for many years.

What is Sculptra® Aesthetic made of? Is it safe?

Sculptra is composed of a synthetic material known as poly-L-lactic acid, Sculptra® Aesthetic is FDA-approved for cosmetic use and has been safely and successfully administered across the world since 1999.

Poly-L-lactic acid is a safe, synthetic (artificially-created), biodegradable (able to be broken down in the body) alpha hydroxy acid that gradually replaces lost collagen and restores a full, youthful structure to the skin. This substance has been used for many years in dissolvable stitches and soft tissue implants, and is absorbed naturally by the body. No skin testing is required.

What happens on the day of treatment?

During a Sculptra® Aesthetic treatment session, patients will be asked to remove any makeup and the skin in the area will be cleaned prior to injection. Dr. Balle will then precisely administer the Sculptra® Aesthetic injection with a very fine needle.

After injection, an ice pack may be applied to help reduce swelling, while gently massaging the treated area can ensure that the material is evenly distributed beneath the skin.

When will I see the results of my Sculptra® treatment?

Unlike other facial fillers, the results of a Sculptra® Aesthetic injection are not immediately visible. As it treats the underlying causes of facial aging, the results of this treatment appear gradually, usually over the course of a few months. Results can last up to two years and appear as subtle, yet noticeable improvements in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Will I need more than one treatment?

The number of treatments needed depends on each patient’s current skin condition and desired goals. Dr. Balle will determine your individual need for treatment during your follow-up appointment a few weeks after your initial Sculptra® Aesthetic session. Most patients achieve noticeable results after three treatment sessions over the course of a few months.

How soon I can go back to my normal activities?

There is little to no downtime after a Sculptra® Aesthetic treatment. Most patients return to their normal activities immediately.

How long do the effects last?

Patients often find results lasting up to two years after your last treatment session, although individual results may vary.

Are there any side effects?

After treatment with Sculptra® Aesthetic, some patients may experience pain at the site of injection, redness, bruising, bleeding, itching or swelling. Some patients may also experience small bumps under the skin that are usually only noticeable when pressing on the area. These symptoms are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days or weeks.